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20 Houseplants That Can Survive With Low-Light

Updated: Sep 3, 2019

If you love houseplants, but your apartment doesn't get much natural light, these plants are what you are looking for. They are among the most adaptable to low-light conditions and will survive even in the darkest corner!

20 Houseplants That Can Survive With Low-Light


1. Philodendron

Philodendron is one of the most popular houseplants in the world and will thrive even in the darkest interiors.


This fast-growing vine will look great in hanging baskets.


All you need to remember is to water when the soil feels dry to the touch.









2. ZZ Plant

Zamioculcas Zamiifolia can not only tolerate low light but can also survive to dry conditions.


It's the perfect plant for someone who travels frequently.


You just need to water it when the top inch of soil dries out.








3. Aglaonema

Aglaonema makes a great houseplant for beginners and forgetful gardeners.


Also called Chinese Evergreen, this houseplant will brighten any dark spot thanks to its gorgeous bright green leaves.















4. Begonia

Whatever species of Begonia you choose, its fancy variegated leaves will transform any dark room into a triumph of colors.


Most Begonia varieties prefer partial shade and indirect sunlight. Their delicate, green leaves can be easily damaged in direct sunlight.


Begonias don't like to dry out completely. Stick your finger into the soil: if it feels dry, it's time to water.








5. Yucca Cane

This plant won't grow as quickly in a dark room as it does in a sunny spot, but it will do fine as long as you don't overwater it.


Give it water only when the soil feels dry to the touch.
















6. Anthurium

The colorful flowers of Anthurium and its green, heart-shaped leaves are exactly the touch that shady spot needs.


Remember that this tropical plant doesn't like to dry out completely, so keep the soil slightly moist at all times.


Anthurium will do fine in dark locations, although flowering may be limited.








7. Dracaena

Dracaena will add some elegance to any spot of your home.


Moderate natural lighting is ideal, but this plant will also tolerate low light conditions.


Water when the soil feels dry to the touch and cut off any faded leaves as soon as they appear.












8. Dieffenbachia

If you are looking for some colorful variegated leaves to light up your home, one of the best options is Dieffenbachia.


They grow well in dark rooms, but they are poisonous – so keep it out of reach of children and pets.


The best way to water this plant is by maintaining moderately moist soil.








9. Boston Fern

This plant will thrive in shady locations and far from any drafts.


Boston Fern's bright green fronds will look beautiful in an urn or a basket.


Water only when the soil feels dry, and mist the leaves often during the winter.










10. Lucky Bamboo

Lucky Bamboo is most known for growing well in water.


You can find it in many spiral and curly shapes and different arrangements.


It can easily grow without sunlight: too much direct sunlight can cause the leaves to burn.


It's better to let this plant go a little dry than to over water it.







11. Pothos

Pothos will thrive in any spot that doesn't get any sunlight.


It's an easy-care trailing plant and comes in a variety of colors.


It likes to dry out between each watering.













12. Rattlesnake Plant

This plant will do great in a shady spot where it receives indirect sunlight only.


Too much sunshine can discolor Rattlesnake Plant's leaves, turning them brown and crispy.


Water the Rattlesnake enough to keep it moist, but not wet or saturated.









13. Asparagus Fern

The Asparagus Fern is adaptable to different light conditions.


You just need to keep it away from direct sunlight as this can cause yellowing foliage and leaf drop.


Asparagus Fern can survive periods of drought, but it will grow at its best if you water it every time the soil is dry.













14. Elephant's Ear

Elephant's Ear leaves could easily burn when exposed to direct sunlight.


Keep this plant in a shaded spot and only increase the hours of sunshine in the winter when the light is low.


Elephant Ears is a water-loving plant. Its soil needs to be kept constantly moist.










15. Fittonia

Fittonia can tolerate bright light to shade conditions, but will truly flourish with bright, indirect light.


Keep in mind that too much sunlight can bleach its leaves and fade the bright veins.


Water moderately and let the plant dry out between waterings.










16. Creeping Fig

Ficus Pumila will grow in almost any light conditions, but will particularly appreciate that shaded spot of your home.


A common problem with this plant is brown, crispy leaves, which can easily happen if it is given too much sun.


Water regularly when it's young but, after it is established, it will do fine even in drought conditions.







17. Bear's Paw Fern

Like most ferns, the Bear's Paw prefers low lighting and will not appreciate being placed near any direct sun.


This tropical plant will thrive in humid conditions. It will require both frequent watering and frequent misting.










18. Earth Star

Most Cryptanthus enjoy shade and should be kept away from sunlight.


If it receives too much sun, the leaves will start to burn. On the other hand, if your plant does not get enough light it will begin to look light green.


Water when the soil becomes slightly dry at the top.











19. Plantain Lily

Hosta usually grows well in shade, but the exact light requirements can change depending on your variety.


Some prefer full shade while others will grow best in partial shade.


This plant likes to be kept well watered.













20. Paper Plant

Fatsia will thrive in partial to full shade.


You can give it small amounts of sun in the morning and afternoon, but not too much: it will turn the dark green leaves yellow and dull.


Water the plant often enough to keep the soil moist.













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